Latrodectus mactans 'Southern Black Widow'

Unlock the allure of the enigmatic with our captivating Black Widow companions. Delve into the mystique of nature's elegant predator with these exquisite arachnids, carefully nurtured to perfection.

Characterized by their sleek, jet-black bodies and iconic red hourglass marking, each Black Widow embodies both beauty and danger. Their graceful movements and intricate web designs are a testament to their intelligence and adaptability.

As pets, Black Widows offer a unique and fascinating window into the world of arachnids. Contrary to their fearsome reputation, when handled with care and respect, they can become surprisingly gentle and intriguing companions.

Whether you're an experienced arachnid enthusiast or a curious beginner, owning a Black Widow is an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world up close. Embrace the elegance and mystery of the Black Widow – adopt yours today!

Here's a guide outlining the care needed for a pet Black Widow:

Habitat:

1. Enclosure: Provide a well-ventilated terrarium or glass aquarium with a secure lid to prevent escapes.
2. Substrate: Line the bottom of the enclosure with a substrate such as coco fiber or peat moss to help maintain humidity and provide a comfortable surface.
3. Hiding spots: Include hiding spots such as artificial plants or small shelters where the Black Widow can retreat and feel secure.

Temperature and Humidity:

1. Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
2. Humidity: Keep humidity levels between 40% to 60%. Mist the enclosure lightly with water as needed, but avoid making it too wet, as this can lead to mold growth.

Feeding:

1. Diet: Offer a diet of live prey suitable for the size of the Black Widow, such as crickets, mealworms, or small cockroaches. Feed adult Black Widows once or twice a week, while juveniles may require more frequent feedings.
2. Prey size: Choose prey items that are no larger than the body size of the Black Widow to prevent injury.
3. Remove uneaten prey: If the Black Widow doesn't consume its prey within a few hours, remove it from the enclosure to avoid stress or injury to the spider.

Handling:

1. Caution: Exercise extreme caution when handling a Black Widow, as they possess venomous bites. We are not responsible if you are bitten by your black widow. Handle at your own risk. 
2. Minimal handling: Limit handling to essential maintenance tasks, such as enclosure cleaning or transferring to a new habitat.
3. Use tools: If handling is necessary, use soft brushes or long-handled tools to gently guide the Black Widow rather than touching it directly.

Health and Maintenance:

1. Observation: Regularly observe your Black Widow for signs of illness or injury, such as lethargy, abnormal webbing, or changes in appetite.
2. Cleanliness: Keep the enclosure clean by removing uneaten prey, molts, and feces regularly to prevent bacterial growth and maintain a healthy environment.
3. Veterinary care: If you suspect your Black Widow is unwell, seek veterinary care from a veterinarian experienced in exotic pets and arachnids.

By providing a suitable habitat, maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels, offering a balanced diet, and exercising caution during handling, you can ensure the health and well-being of your pet Black Widow. Enjoy the fascinating journey of caring for these captivating arachnids!